How to Wear Flares
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Ellie SpicerGot the blues: how to wear flared jeans
Whether you choose classic high-waisted jeans in leg-lengthening indigo or a low-rise cropped acid wash pair, the flared jean is back for 2025. Spotted on the Paris and New York catwalks and celebrities such as Victoria Beckham, this 1970s wardrobe icon remains a modern essential. And, whichever trend you choose – boho, '90s or preppy – flared jeans will pull the whole look together.
When thinking about how to style flares, consider the golden rule of all outfit building: balance. The wider leg and voluminous hem work well with fitted tops, but don't rule out playing with proportions. Flared jeans worn with a fitted white T-shirt and an oversized girlfriend-style shirt will always look chic. Throw over a blazer and step into some heels if you're heading to work. For a more relaxed feel, high-top trainers and a cosy jumper bring a collegiate edge to flared jeans in shades such as indigo and cream.
Smarten up: ways to wear flared trousers
Flared trousers naturally skew slightly smarter than their flared jeans cousins, which makes them ideal for work and special occasions. As with other trouser shapes, classic tones like black and grey work well for corporate dress codes. Add a super soft cashmere jumper and you've got the perfect work outfit for the cooler months.
Wondering how to style flared trousers for a night out? Keep the accessories simple and let your trousers do all the talking. For example, we love these statement-making polka dot flares from LK Bennett. Pair with a crisp cotton shirt (unbuttoning a little further than you would for work), or try a strappy cami-style party top.
Sports luxe: what to wear with flared leggings
We have the popularity of athleisure to thank for the flared leggings trend. Casual, gym-inspired and flattering on all shapes, flared leggings effortlessly merge comfort and style. When thinking about how to style flared leggings, take inspiration from their sporty heritage. Wear with chunky trainers and an oversized hoodie or cricket jumper for an easy brunch look, or switch in some ballet pumps for a little more elegance. Shrug over a roomy denim jacket for the perfect finishing touch.
A quick search for how to dress up flared leggings will return a host of inspiring outfits. Try wearing yours with a smart, structured blazer and sky-high heels, keeping your colour palette tight for a more cohesive feel. A well-fitting cotton T-shirt in black or white is your styling go-to here.
Step in: what shoes to wear with flares
Certain shoe styles seem to be designed perfectly to wear with flares. Starting with heels: from sandals to stilettos, wedges to kitten heels, any heeled shoe that gives you a little extra height complements the leg-lengthening power of flared jeans or trousers. If you prefer flats, pretty pumps, sliders and even footbed-style mules amp up the vintage feel of the silhouette.
Ankle boots, particularly those with a chiseled toe, are the natural partner to flared jeans - think cowboy boots and Chelsea styles. Flares worn with trainers is also an easy win: consider retro-inspired shapes such as high tops or low-profile trainers to emulate their 1970s legacy.
Published 7.28.2025
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